The roles of decision makers in special operations
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Authors
Aykac, Kazim
Subjects
special operations
roles of decision makers
approval phase
preparation phase
execution phase
Operation Thunderbolt
Operation Nimrod
Operation Eagle Claw
the Moscow Theater Hostage Crisis
roles of decision makers
approval phase
preparation phase
execution phase
Operation Thunderbolt
Operation Nimrod
Operation Eagle Claw
the Moscow Theater Hostage Crisis
Advisors
Rothstein, Hy
Date of Issue
2016-12
Date
Dec-16
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis examines the roles of decision makers in three phases of a special operation: the approval phase, the preparation phase, and the execution phase. The author argues that the level of decision makers' involvement should be high in the approval phase, medium in the preparation phase, and low in the execution phase. Four special operations—Operation Thunderbolt, Operation Nimrod, Operation Eagle Claw, and the Moscow Theater Hostage Crisis—which were conducted by different countries' Special Forces, are studied in order to test the argument. Ultimately, this thesis seeks to draw attention to the specific roles that decision makers should perform for a successful special operation. It concludes by offering these specific activities for decision makers: Examining Less Risky Options, Gaining International and Domestic Support, Delegating Authority, Establishing Clear Chain of Command, Selecting Appropriate Units, Gaining Time, Coordinating, and Preserving Secrecy.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
Organization
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.